Obama Congratulates Jonathan

The United States has congratulated President Goodluck Jonathan for winning Saturday’s presidential election, saying the election represents “a positive new beginning for Nigeria”.

A statement issued late on Tuesday by U.S. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton wished Jonathan well “in meeting the many challenges facing Nigeria” and in providing good governance.

“On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I applaud the people of Nigeria for their enthusiastic and orderly participation in the April 16th presidential election.

“This historic event marks a dramatic shift from decades of failed elections and a substantial improvement over the 2007 presidential election,” she said.

The U.S. also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), its Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega, government agencies and civil society for their strong collaboration and dedication to democracy.

“They provided a real opportunity for the Nigerian people “to select their most senior leaders and will position Nigeria to build its democracy through strong governance, transparent institutions, and economic development,” Clinton said in the statement.

The U.S. government, however, noted that while the presidential election was a success for the people of Nigeria, “it was far from perfect,” and urged INEC to transparently review and take appropriate and transparent actions on all allegations of election malpractice.

It nevertheless added that “the United States condemns the acts of violence related to elections and we call upon all candidates, political parties, and supporters to respect the results of the election and channel any grievances or challenges peacefully through established administrative organs for legal redress.

“The international community will closely watch the upcoming gubernatorial elections and we call on all Nigerian stakeholders to support a credible and peaceful electoral process”.